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The long-awaited Convergence development holds its grand opening this week. Convergence stands at the heart of the Innovation District, a 1.3 square mile sector east of downtown OKC created to stimulate growth across diverse STEM-centered sectors, including health, energy, aerospace, technology, research, and academics.
Convergence is a mixed-use development designed to foster collaboration. It includes The Tower, an upscale boutique hotel and restaurant, housing, and a below-grade parking garage near Stiles Park. Its pedestrian-friendly layout connects Oklahoma’s two largest universities and unites public and private sectors, creating an inclusive community that supports STEM growth. Its placement in the heart of the Innovation District offers an environment where professionals can live, work, and innovate together.
In partnership with the Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City, the Innovation District has accelerated growth across industries, enabling professionals to develop new technologies and services. This collaboration enhances OKC’s competitiveness, attracting out-of-state organizations and top talent to strengthen the city’s workforce.
Oklahoma City’s STEM industries are experiencing significant growth. The bioscience sector alone boasts about $6.7 billion in annual revenue, with the tech sector following at about $4.2 billion annually. Fostering these fields, through strategic developments like Convergence, is creating quality, high-paying jobs and driving higher education in new ways.
Academic and biomedical institutions like Oklahoma’s Life Sciences Foundation have generated over 800 jobs, with incomes dramatically higher than the state average. These advancements underscore Oklahoma City’s emergence as a hub for STEM innovation, driving economic growth and providing diverse opportunities for its workforce.
OKC’s STEM industries have always been well worth the investment. Positioned centrally in the United States, OKC offers logistical advantages for businesses, along with access to resources like Tinker Air Force Base, which plays a critical role in aerospace, a top revenue-driving industry in OKC. Proximity to the state’s top universities provides a steady pipeline of talent and advanced research capabilities.
Convergence is more than simply a building, it’s establishing a home to the new ecosystem of science and technology fields that are slated to invigorate Oklahoma City’s economy. It is a testament to strategic development. It was created to connect academics, business, and lifestyle in such a way that our city grows a competitive advantage in the region. We know how much OKC has to offer, and we are eager to share it with those STEM industry leaders who join the workforce at Convergence.
Kenton Tsoodle is the president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.
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